We’ve all been there – excited to buy a new skateboard, only to realize later that we made some critical mistakes in our skateboard buying. Whether you’re a seasoned pro skateboard user or a newbie on the skateboard, it’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of getting new gear and avoid overlooking important details.
Here at FamilyHype, we’re here to help with your skateboard journey! We’ve compiled a list of common skateboard buying mistakes that you need to avoid that can cause trouble down the line.
From ignoring the type of skateboard (such as longboards, cruiser boards, street boards, etc.), the quality of materials (such as wood, plastic, carbon fiber, etc.), wheel size and material (such as soft wheels, hard wheels, urethane wheels, etc.), focusing solely on design, not considering the brand (such as Element, Santa Cruz, Globe, etc.), and skipping protective gear (such as helmets, knee pads, elbow pads, etc.) – we’ll guide you through these pitfalls.
Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be better equipped to make smarter decisions when shopping for your next skateboard. So let’s steer clear of trouble together and ensure your skateboarding journey is as smooth as possible!
We invite you to share your feedback and experience with us about this content and skateboarding in general. Here at FamilyHype, we value the family unit and wish you a safe and fun skateboarding experience.
Key Takeaways
Skateboarding is a popular sport, leisure activity, and even mode of transportation for many people around the world. Its versatility allows skaters to express themselves, engage in physical activity, and sometimes even become professional athletes. We will dive into the factors to consider when purchasing the perfect skateboard in order to have an enjoyable experience.
- The first aspect to consider is the deck shape as it affects stability and maneuverability. There are several types of decks – from standard-shaped ones for street skating and tricks to longboards apt for cruising fast over long distances.
- Truck size also plays a significant role as it influences the skateboard’s turning capabilities and stability during rides. Trucks should be sized according to deck width; wider trucks offer increased balance, while narrower trucks facilitate sharper turns.
- Wheel diameter directly impacts speed control and ease of movement: larger wheels can reach higher speeds but may be harder to maneuver at lower velocities; smaller wheels allow more fine-tuned actions but limit top speed potential.
- Materials quality affects durability and performance: high-quality wood (mostly maple) ply decks are preferred due to their strength-to-weight ratio; aluminum or titanium truck materials add durability without heavy weight addition; premium urethane wheels provide optimal grip on various surfaces without wearing down quickly.
- Vouching for renowned brands means you invest in reliable products that guarantee better performance throughout their lifespan.
- Investing time in selecting appropriate protective gear like helmets, knee & elbow pads, and wrist guards ensures another layer of safety.
- Detail-level design can magnetize like-minded enthusiasts that help showcase expression style statements while venturing out.
- Buying within budget constraints allows one to gauge their interest levels before upgrading their arsenal, which would be in line with prowess.
- Testing various combinations of decks, trucks, and wheels or opting for customized skateboards enables the user to find their perfect fit according to individual preferences and skating styles.
- Choosing the right skateboard, especially when buying an electric skateboard, requires thorough research, attention to detail, and patience. Visit your local skate shop for guidance on making the best choice to avoid any potential issues like the skateboard suddenly stop working.
By avoiding common skateboard-buying mistakes and taking into account all of the above-mentioned attributes, you can make sure to have an enjoyable and safe skateboarding experience. With the help of FamilyHype, you can now confidently shop for a skateboard and avoid trouble.
Ignoring The Skateboard Type
Ignoring the skateboard type can lead to a world of disappointment, so taking the time to consider skateboard durability and deck shape is key. Beginners may require a different type of board compared to experienced skateboarders. Skateboards come in diverse designs and styles, each catering to specific abilities and intended uses, such as cruising or performing tricks. Assessing one’s capabilities ensures the right fit between the rider and the board.
– Longboards: Best suited for cruising long distances and downhill racing.
– Shortboards: Designed primarily for high-speed tricks and performing stunts.
– Cruisers: Intermediate-sized boards built for maneuverability on city streets.
The deck size plays a significant role in determining the skateboard’s stability and maneuverability for its rider. For larger riders or those who seek more control while cruising, wider decks with increased surface area are recommended. Similarly, smaller riders may prefer narrower decks that enable easier performance tricks due to their reduced weight.
There are various types, such as longboards, cruiser boards, and street boards. Each serves a different purpose and provides a unique riding experience. Consider what you want from your skateboard before committing to any specific type.
In addition, the quality of materials used in making skateboards is an important factor to consider. From the type of deck to the quality of the wheels, there are a variety of skateboard elements to think about.
With this knowledge, you can feel confident that your skateboard will provide a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Please share your skateboarding experience and feedback with us!
Neglecting The Quality Of The Skate Materials
Neglecting the quality of materials used for skateboard construction can have devastating consequences, including premature wear and tear or poor performance.
Neglecting the materials of a complete skateboard, including quality components, can impact the smooth ride, especially when buying your first skateboard, as the size, wider deck, and wider boards, such as bamboo skateboards or electric skateboards, contribute to the overall performance and experience of the complete range.
At FamilyHype, we prioritize quality over price and want to share a few tips to consider when purchasing a skateboard. Made from different materials, each with its own unique advantages:
– Maple Wood: Highly durable material ideal for heavy use; however, it can be slightly more expensive compared to other wood types.
– Bamboo: Lightweight alternative preferred by some riders due to its flexibility; tremendous sustainability benefits also make this option ecologically sound.
– Carbon Fiber & Aluminum Decks: Stronger but more expensive options mainly used in professional skateboard designed explicitly for competition.
Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Deck Durability
- Material Sustainability
- Resistance to elements
- Weight capacity
- Flexibility
Unknown brands can often lead individuals into compromising on quality aspects since these products might not have undergone proper testing measures or may lack customer reviews cementing true feedback about their reliability levels; choosing reputable brands increases the chances of ensuring superior manufacturing prowess through informed decisions throughout the buyer journey.
Remember, the goal is to find a skateboard that offers the perfect balance of quality and price, so make sure to keep that in mind and do your research before making a purchase.
Overlooking The Wheel (Hard Or Soft Wheels) Size And Material
Let’s not forget about the importance of wheel size and material when buying a skateboard. Perfecting the balance between speed + control depends heavily on the wheels’ size/material because lower-diameter wheels will provide more stability, whereas larger ones can generate higher speed. Furthermore, harder/softer wheels cater to different road conditions enabling smoother rides on rough pavements and flat terrains.
Smaller wheels are preferred by street skaters or technical riders since they allow greater control and responsiveness. Mid-sized wheels cater to a broader realm of skating styles – suitable for both street and park use, providing good balance between stability and maneuverability. Finally, larger wheels cater to cruisers and downhill riders who aim for increased speed over long distances or hilly terrains.
To choose the ideal wheel size, consider the skateboarding style that interests you the most:
- Technical/street skating: smaller diameter wheels
- Versatile all-around use: mid-sized diameter wheels
- Cruising/downhill riding: larger diameter wheels
Moreover, the material that composes a skateboard wheel is typically polyurethane, with varying durometer ratings determining its hardness/softness levels.
- Harder Wheels: The increased surface hardness delivers better-sliding capabilities on smooth surfaces like concrete floors at skate parks or ramps in urban environments.
- Softer Wheels: These are well-suited for rougher terrains as they exhibit better grip over uneven pavement or skateboard cruising; additionally, they provide added comfort by absorbing road vibrations more effectively.
As such:
- Street skating on ramps/skateparks: harder materials
- Cruising on rough surfaces/urban areas: softer materials
How our skateboard performs largely depends on these two factors. The right wheel size makes a significant difference in controlling speed and maneuverability, while the material determines traction and durability, making it essential to give them due consideration.
Role Of Wheel Size In Longboarding Performance
Skateboarding is a beloved sport for experienced and novice riders alike, and choosing the right wheel size is key to ensuring your performance and enjoyment. At FamilyHype, we understand the importance of selecting the right skateboard wheel size, so let’s dive into understanding its role in skateboarding.
The role of wheel size in longboarding performance is crucial, as it affects factors like speed, stability, and maneuverability, and choosing the right size is essential for young riders seeking the best skateboard with the right board, good board components, and budget-friendly options, as outlined in beginners and buyers guides for pro decks.
Skateboard wheel size is measured in millimeters (mm), with the diameter determining the size of the wheel. Generally, skateboard wheels range from 50mm to 75mm in diameter, though there are outliers on either side.
The wheel size of a skateboard affects both its durability and speed: larger wheels are often more durable and hold up better against wear and tear. In comparison, smaller wheels allow for quicker acceleration. Depending upon whether you prefer skateboarding at parks, street-skating or cruising down hilly terrains, you may need a different wheel size.
There are numerous types of skateboard wheels available in the market made from various materials such as polyurethane (standard choice) or hard plastic – each intended for specific performance goals.
- Street/Park Wheels (50-60mm): Designed for smooth surfaces like concrete parks or streets; smaller diameter allows more effortless flips while maintaining speed.
- Cruiser Wheels (54-60mm): Ideal for skateboard or cruisers; a larger overall diameter offers top-notch stability when maneuvering through crowds and downhill slopes at high speeds.
Smaller wheels offer better acceleration and maneuverability at lower speeds, making them well-suited for technical street skating and tricks. In comparison, larger wheels help maintain higher speeds for longer durations yet require more pushing force to start moving. Larger wheels perform better on rough surfaces as they can roll over pebbles and cracks smoothly without compromising speed or balance.
The durometer scale measures a skateboarding wheel’s hardness which affects grip capabilities directly—such as sliding capacity—and indirectly impacts other factors like durability along wear resistance progressions proportionally inverse alongside forgiving weight transfer induction modalities concerning new edge articulation potentialities colloquially correlated with rider enjoyment magnitude amplifications.
So, if you want to enjoy the sport and maximize your performance, select the right wheel size and material for your skateboard.
Please feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comment section below.
Importance Of Wheel Material
In your quest for the perfect ride, you’ll find that wheel material is just as crucial as size in determining how your skateboard performs. Wheel hardness, measured by Durometer ratings, significantly impacts ride quality and control. Not giving it due attention can lead to disappointing experiences.
But remember friends, not to be swayed solely by appealing designs. The aesthetic should complement functionality. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skater, investing in the right gear is crucial for a safe and enjoyable skating experience.
Polyurethane wheels are a popular choice as they are durable and provide excellent grip, while PVC wheels are less expensive but provide less grip. Urethane wheels offer excellent performance and a good balance between grip and durability.
The right wheel material can make or break the ride, so give it due attention when selecting the right skateboard for you.
Prevent Focusing Only On The Design
Design can be a powerful influence when picking a skateboard, but it should never overshadow the need for quality and functionality. An aesthetic appeal does not always equate to performance, so it’s important to remember that when making your choice.
Focus on quality. Skateboard quality is crucial for durability and overall user experience. Rather than just focusing on design, consider high-quality materials such as durable wood types (like maple), top-grade urethane wheels, and reliable trucks that ensure better performance and longevity.
We encourage you to share your skateboard stories and experiences with us, and if you’re still unsure, don’t forget to take a look at the skateboard reviews on FamilyHype. You’ll find detailed information about different skateboards, including skateboard type, size, weight, material, features, and price.
We want to ensure you get the most out of your skateboard, so take the time to evaluate all of the important elements, including the features skate, and make an informed decision.
Why Skaters Need Consideration On Purchasing Skateboard Brand
Brand reputation matters. Choosing your ideal skateboard can be daunting, and it’s important not to overlook the importance of a trusted brand. Reputation isn’t just about name recognition; it’s also about a brand’s innovation and commitment to quality. Investing in the wrong skateboard can lead to disappointment and even dangerous situations.
When considering your skateboard purchase, look into the attributes and values of various skateboard brands. This includes companies specializing in innovative design, use of quality materials, and superior craftsmanship. Remember to pick a brand that guarantees a safe, enjoyable ride.
Accessorize wisely. It’s also important not to overlook the need for protective gear. Skateboards come with varying levels of safety features, so make sure to invest in the right gear for you and your family. Helmets, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards are all essential protective equipment for a safe skateboarding experience.
For young riders, consider buying the skateboard brand for kids because they offer full-size skateboards for beginners, teaching the basics, making it easier for your kid to learn tricks like the ollie, and the brand’s reputation is a positive sign that your child will enjoy learning to skate.
Invest in a skateboard produced by a reputable brand which often guarantees better customer service and consistent quality production standards than lesser-known entities. Research brands online through reviews from fellow skaters or consults reliable sources like FamilyHype.
Skipping Skateboard Protective Gear
You might be tempted to hit the pavement without protective gear, but that could lead to a hard tumble on the asphalt with no protection. Skateboarding is an activity that requires riders to stay alert and well-protected. Skateboarders can experience the sport’s joy while staying safe by ensuring durability.
This highlights the importance of gear for skateboarders. At FamilyHype, we understand the importance of staying safe while skateboarding. That’s why it’s our responsibility to prioritize durability when buying protective gear.
Skateboarders must prioritize the durability of their protective gear for several reasons. Riding a skateboard on various surfaces exposes the riders to potential injuries that could have long-term consequences if not addressed properly.
We highly encourage you to consider the following when choosing protective gear: durable helmets to protect your head, elbow, and knee, pads to shield against scrapes, and sturdy gloves to guard your hands.
- Helmets: A helmet designed specifically for skateboarding offers better protection than generic ones. Look for helmets with an ABS outer shell, EPS foam lining, and an adjustable strap system to ensure safety and a comfortable fit.
- Elbow and Knee Pads: Slips, trips, or falls can quickly result in cuts, bruises, or worse, fractured bones without adequate padding. Elbow and knee pads should feature a hard plastic shell combined with high-density foam cushioning to provide maximum protection from impact.
- Gloves: Wrist guards or gloves provide support against fractures caused by putting out one’s hands instinctively during falls from skateboards.
Sharing personal experiences and insights about skateboard safety is essential in creating awareness among peers within the skating community. As a website dedicated to families, we at FamilyHype understand the importance of safety and encourage our readers to share their experiences and feedback regarding skateboarding safety.
Visiting Local Longboard Shops Inadequately
An excellent place to start when looking for your first skateboard or upgrading your existing one, especially if you’re interested in an electric skateboard, is at a local skate shop. These shops have knowledgeable staff that can provide personalized recommendations based on your skill level and preferences. Additionally, local skate shops often have an advantage over big-box retailers as they may carry unique products or offer deals not available elsewhere, resulting in a good price on cheap skateboards while maintaining quality.
Settling For Cheap Boards Over Value
While it’s easy to be tempted by cheap boards when purchasing your first skateboard and looking to learn, remember that quality matters more than the price in the long run. Investing more money upfront in a good skateboard will save you from potential injuries and additional expenses incurred due to faulty equipment, whether it’s a regular skateboard or an electric skateboard. Moreover, advanced skaters can feel confident investing even more money into their custom skateboard setup because of their awareness of specific requirements.
Overlooking Skateboard Deck Options
Overlooking skateboard deck options is a common point of confusion for many buyers. Selecting the ideal deck size for your height and shoe size significantly impacts your flip tricks learning curve and overall control over the board. When opting for either blank decks or other brands’ complete skateboards, ensure that it suits you well regarding deck width and length while seeking advice from experienced skaters if needed.
Neglecting Skill Level Needs
Newcomers might not require an advanced setup designed explicitly for experienced riders but should instead focus on simple yet durable models specifically intended for beginners. Just started skating. Attempting complicated tricks on unsuitable equipment may stifle progress in learning new skills effectively or, worse, result in injury.
Ignoring The Importance Of Customization
As you gain more experience on your skateboard and develop a precise style preference, it will become increasingly essential to fine-tune your setup with specific features that work best for you. Investing in a custom skateboard enables skaters to choose individual components such as trucks, wheels, and bearings tailored to meet their unique requirements.
Balance cost control while considering value over cheap boards. Buy a skateboard deck appropriately suited to your skill level.
Conclusion
We’ve walked you through common skateboard buying mistakes that need to avoid – from choosing the right type of board to evaluating the material quality and wheel specs – and we hope that this guide from FamilyHype will help you steer clear of trouble and make the right choice for your skating needs.
Determine your skating goals and choose the right type of skateboard. Also, skateboard buyers should pay attention to the brand’s reliability, as well as the design of the board. Don’t forget to consider the deck shape, truck size, and wheel diameter. Besides, investing in protective gear is an absolute must.
By avoiding common skateboard-buying mistakes, you can make sure to have an enjoyable and safe experience while skateboarding.
We want to hear your feedback on this article and your experience with skateboards, so please share your opinions with us!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What Not To Consider When Purchasing Your First Skateboard?
Firstly, identify your specific skateboarding style. Secondly, exercise discernment when selecting your deck. Thirdly, carefully consider trucks and their respective heights. Finally, prioritize stability by opting for mellow concaves over steep ones. Please avoid settling for low-quality cheap materials; investing in inexpensive plastic alternatives should never be an option. Besides, ensuring a secure grip on your board is crucial for optimal performance and safety. Adhering to these guidelines will help prevent any unwarranted issues while enjoying the skateboarding experience.
What To Look For When Purchasing A Longboard For A Beginner?
Make sure to select a 7-ply or higher deck for durability. Go for ABEC 5-rated bearings to maintain smooth movement. For children, choose boards measuring 7.25″-7.5″ or smaller. To ensure a comfortable ride, select soft, large wheels, while harder and smaller wheels are preferable for executing tricks. Focus on components like decks, grip tape, trucks, wheels, bearings, and hardware and maintain optimal performance.
How Can You Tell If The Longboard Is Good Quality?
By examining specific characteristics such as its lightweight nature, durability, and “pop” – the balance between flexibility and rigidity that enables effective ollies and tricks. It’s important to consider the deck’s sturdiness, flex, size, and shape tailored to your requirements.
How Do I Choose A Skateboard?
Besides the budget, identifying the appropriate skateboard dimensions (height, weight, and shoe size) is of paramount importance, followed by determining the optimal board shape. Moreover, understanding specific requirements in terms of size and assessing suitable skateboarding materials will both contribute to an informed choice. Board shape and material choice are also essential for optimizing performance.
Do Complete Skateboards Need Grease?
Proper maintenance of skateboard bearings entails timely lubrication. An increase in noise or a decline in smoothness may indicate the necessity for lubrication. We advise using high-quality oil or grease for an extended lifespan for your skateboard components.
Is Skateboarding A High Risk?
Yes, skateboarding can be a high-risk activity despite its enjoyable and thrilling nature. Each year, around 70,000 injuries necessitate emergency department visits. The primary concern for young skateboarders is the potential for head injuries, such as concussions. Bedies, hand, wrist, or shoulder injuries could happen to skateboarders in certain situations. Experts advise taking precautions to minimize these risks while partaking in this exhilarating sport.
What Is Forbidden When Street Surfing?
Firstly, avoid riding in the street or during wet weather; instead, go for a smooth driveway away from traffic. Secondly, steer clear of retail skateboards from stores like Big 5 or Target as well as plastic decks and mini skateboards lacking aluminum trucks. Appropriate attire is essential in ensuring safety and enhancing performance.
Refrain from engaging in wax fights, trying to ‘one-up’ others, or exhibiting unsportsmanlike behavior. Remember that fostering a supportive environment benefits everyone involved.
How Do I Protect My Board Graphics?
One effective approach entails applying clear tape or a robust yet flexible layer of resin epoxy coating or plastic on the deck’s underside. Alternatively, consider utilizing a spray varnish specifically designed for acrylic paintings or crafting one independently. For a glossy finish, liquid varnish would be the ideal choice. According to industry experts, proper protection not only preserves the visuals but also prolongs the lifespan of your skateboard while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.
How Do You Know When You Need A New Skateboard?
A skateboard may need replacing when its nose or tail begins to chip or the deck loses its pop due to frequent use and wears out. This subtle wear can lead to struggles with the board’s performance. So, get a new deck when it loses shape, such as a squaring off tail or significant missing pieces. Keep an eye on these indicators for an optimal skating experience. When considering a new board, it’s crucial to be aware of common skateboard buying mistakes to evade, such as overlooking the impact of plastic trucks and not paying attention to deck sizes, especially for a first board or a new skater.
How Can I Choose A Skateboard Deck For A Girl?
Generally, female skateboarders with a shoe size of 11 or smaller tend to benefit from using a standard deck size between 7.5 and 8.0 inches. This sizing is especially advantageous for those who enjoy street skating and executing technical manoeuvers, as it facilitates the smoother performance of stunts and tricks.
Last Updated on January 13, 2024 by Shulammite Jan Languido
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